Artist: Takahashi (Hiroaki) Shotei
Medium: Original Japanese Woodblock Print
Series Title: Evening
Edition: First and only
Date: 1929
Publisher: Fusui Gabo
Reference No.: Folk #314; pg. 66
Size: 15 -1/2 x 10 -1/4 "
Condition: Very fine
Notes:
The highly sought-after work, "Shore of Lake Chūzenji" (Moon over Lake Chuzenji, Nikko) is a rare and tranquil woodblock print that captures the reflective mood of the surrounding area. The design effortlessly showcases Shōtei's absolute mastery over light, shadow, and evening atmosphere.
The entire scene is drenched in deep blues and blacks, evoking a cool, late-evening calm. A prominent moon or late sunset glow illuminates the surface of the lake and casts soft highlights along the distant mountain. On the right side of the composition, a dark silhouette of tall trees anchors the frame. Nestled nearby, small buildings glow with warm interior light. Tiny figures walking along a path provide a delicate narrative touch, emphasizing the peaceful coexistence of human life and nature.
The first shinsaku hanga prints ever published were images on paper by Shotei. He excelled in landscape design and ultimately aspired to achieve the artistic quality inherent in the woodblock print. The artist's work is characterized by refined realism enhanced by a restrained palette and delicate lines. Mainly produced for the export market, these woodcuts gained the widespread popularity that still continues today.